First managed service framework for NHS interpretation services awarded
thebigword becomes sole supplier under recently-launched translation procurement framework
The NHS Shared Business Service’s Commercial Procurement Solutions group has appointed thebigword as sole supplier under its new interpretation and translation procurement framework.
The two-year initial term of the framework agreement will enable thebigword to provide a managed service under Lot 6 to public sector organisations including the NHS, and is the first of its kind within the interpreting industry. It will cover all language services including interpreting over the telephone and face-to-face, as well as British Sign Language.
The new interpreting framework went live on 1 November and it is hoped it will reduce interpreting costs across the NHS by around £1m a year. The saving is achieved by streamlining booking and invoicing processes, creating a more competitive marketplace.
Under Lot 6 of the new framework, NHS trusts and public sector organisations will still be able to access local language providers that have been used previously, thereby securing local employment. However, the managed service enables all bookings to be handled by thebigword via a single booking process, providing organisations with one point of contact, one billing system, a robust selection and uniform quality checking of interpreters across suppliers. If a local supplier is unable to fulfil the booking, thebigword will operate as a back-up service to ensure an interpreter is available. The additional resilience provided by the managed service will come at no additional cost to the NHS
The NHS framework covers thebigword’s Word Pie technology, which is already in use with a number of private sector and government bodies.
Damien Cador, category manager at the Commercial Procurement Solutions group, said: “A reliable interpreter service is vital for the NHS where, quite literally, patients’ lives can depend on it. The managed service agreement with thebigword enables trusts to use their tried and tested suppliers while providing a backstop if necessary and simultaneously, reducing costs.”